Clergy Service an Act of Love During Holy Week

In an act of love and appreciation for the clergy of the Diocese of Edmonton, Bishop Stephen London welcomed all to All Saints’ Cathedral, on Holy Tuesday, for a time of renewal, thanksgiving and fellowship.

In the Gospel, read by the Rev. Jordan Giggey, deacon in mission, Jesus gives his disciples a new commandment: “Just as I loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34-35)

Love is the “single, defining mark of the Christian community,” said Bishop London.

“Of course, we are called to be an icon of God’s deep, abiding love that transcends division and alienation, here and now, as best we can. Just as Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, love always begins with simple acts of service: meeting people in their place of need… It is my understanding of ministry, that we are bearers of God’s blessing through acts of love. I am grateful to be with you today. You are a group of people who has known the love and goodness of God in Jesus Christ. You bear that blessing to your people and to the world…”

Deacons and priests from parishes across central Alberta reaffirmed their ordination vows and received Communion from Bishop London and the Rev. Ruth Sesink Bott, interim assisting priest, Christ Church, Edmonton, and vicar of the cathedral.

Following the service, clergy were invited to replenish their stock of Holy Oil blessed by the Bishop. All were invited to a soup and sandwich lunch, prepared by Sarah Kemp, Bishop’s executive assistant; and the Very Rev. Alex Meek, Dean, which they enjoyed with members of the Belonging Centre community who were also gathered in the Cathedral Common.